St. Thomas, USVI – On Thursday, July 27, 2023, at approximately 11:00 a.m., the Criminal Investigation Bureau was contacted by Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) stationed at Yacht Haven Grande regarding the apprehension of a male, identified as Mr. Jean Pierre Gonzales-Escobar, who they observed operating a dingy heading in the direction of Puerto Rico. CBP boarded the vessel and discovered that the vessel was stolen. Contact was made with the owner of the vessel who stated that they did not give anyone permission to operate the boat. Mr. Gonzales-Escobar later admitted to taking the vessel to head back to Puerto Rico.

Jean Pierre Gonzales-Escobar

Mr. Jean Pierre Gonzales-Escobar, 37-years-old was charged with Unauthorized Use of a Vessel with bail at $25,000.00.

This case is presently under investigation by the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Anyone with any information regarding this crime is urged to contact 911, the Criminal Investigation Bureau, the Chief’s Office or Detective Brian Bedminster at (340) 774-2211 ext. 5573 or Crime Stoppers V.I. at 1 (800) 222-TIPS.

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All individuals listed as arrested or charged with a crime in this press release are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.